Contract details on Casey Blake, Aaron Cook

DENVER — The idea that Casey Blake could play a significant role for the Rockies is hinted at in his new contract. Blake’s deal provides insurance for the Rockies at third base and $1 million in incentives for the player if he becomes a starter.

Aaron Cook’s deal with the Red Sox, meanwhile, is equipped with escape clauses if he’s not added to their 25-man roster by June 1.

The Rockies announced Blake’s signing on the day they introduced free agent Michael Cuddyer. Blake has a one-year, non-guaranteed, $2-million deal. He can make an additional $1 million with regular playing time, according to contract information obtained by The Denver Post. Blake will make an additional $200,000 for 350 plate appearances, maxing out at $1 million if he reaches 550 plate appearances. When his deal was finalized, the club press released described it as a major league contract. The language suggests as much. Blake is expected to make the team if healthy.

Blake, who last played with the Dodgers, can buy time for 20-year-old top prospect Nolan Arenado if he’s not ready to assume a starting role. Arenado, the Arizona Fall League MVP, led the entire minor leagues in RBIs, but hasn’t played an inning beyond Class-A ball. Chris Nelson and Jordan Pacheco are also in the mix at third base.

Cook, the all-time wins leader in Rockies’ history, signed a one-year, $1.5-million minor-league deal with the Red Sox that calls for a $20,000 monthly salary if in the minors. Cook has escalator clauses beginning at 15 starts. Ultimately, he can make an additional $2 million if he starts 30 games. The veteran right-hander can also request his release if not on the 25-man roster on May 1 and again on June 1.

Patrick, a third-generation Colorado native, is back for his second stint covering the Rockies. He first covered the team from 2005-2009, helping chronicle “Rocktober” in 2007 and also following the team’s playoff run in 2009.

Nick Groke has worked at The Denver Post since 1997, as a sports reporter, city reporter, entertainment writer and digital editor and producer, among other newsroom posts. He also writes regularly about boxing, soccer, MMA and NASCAR.